Corvette Grand Sport recalls the group of 1963 production race cars spearheaded by Corvette engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov. (Photo: Chevrolet)
The new Grand Sport combines the Corvette’s LS3-based powertrain with unique, wide-body styling and a race-bred suspension for a distinctive model that delivers a balance of road and race-track performance. It will be offered in both coupe and convertible body styles, with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.
The LS3 6.2-liter engine is rated at 430 horsepower and 424 pound-feet of torque with the standard exhaust system. An optional two-mode exhaust system elevates the power ratings to 436 horses and 428 pound-feet
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The Grand Sport replaces Corvette’s previous Z51 package and brings a greater degree of handling performance, with wider wheels and tires; revised shock, stabilizer bar and spring specifications; and specific gearing. The equipment enables cornering capability of 1.0 g, as well as a 0.2-second improvement in 0-60 acceleration vs. standard LS3-powered models.
An original 1963 Grand Sport leads the pack in this vintage racing photo. (Photo: Dave Friedman/RM Auctions)
Its suspension package approaches that of the Z06, but includes a removable roof on coupes (Z06 has a fixed roof) and course, the availability of a convertible. Also, the paddle-shift six-speed automatic transmission is offered, while a manual transmission is the only choice with the Z06.
All of Corvette’s exterior colors are offered on the Grand Sport, and an available Heritage package adds iconic front fender hash marks offered in four colors, as well as two-tone seats with Grand Sport embroidery.
The original Corvette Grand Sport was envisioned by legendary Corvette engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov as a factory-built, lightweight and race-ready production model that would trump domestic and foreign road-racing competitors. The idea led to the production of five special prototypes in 1963. The project was later shelved, following GM’s decision to stay out of manufacturer-backed motorsports.
The five prototypes were based on the styling of the 1963 Corvette and were hand-assembled under Duntov’s watchful eye. But while they looked like production models, the prototypes were purpose-built race cars that shared little with their assembly-line cousins. Duntov also oversaw the Grand Sport engine program that featured a special, 377-cubic-inch small-block V-8 with side-draft carburetors.
Although never officially sanctioned by General Motors, the five Grand Sport prototypes saw extensive racing experience throughout the 1960s in the hands of “private” racers who had strong contacts within Duntov’s engineering circle. All five original cars are accounted for today and are among the most valuable in the collector market.
Chevrolet offered a limited-edition Grand Sport production model in 1996, commemorating the original racing cars and marking the end of the C4 era in Corvette production.
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